The CA27.29 test is used primarily for monitoring which type of cancer?

The CA27.29 test is specifically utilized to monitor the recurrence of breast cancer. It measures the level of a tumor-associated antigen that is often elevated in individuals with breast cancer. After a patient undergoes treatment for breast cancer, regular monitoring of CA27.29 levels can help healthcare providers determine if the cancer has returned or if there are new disease developments. This makes it an essential tool in the follow-up care of breast cancer survivors to assess their current health status and guide further treatment decisions.

In contrast, the other cancers listed are not primarily tracked using this particular test. For instance, prostate cancer is typically monitored through PSA levels, colon cancer primarily through CEA levels, and ovarian cancer is more often associated with CA-125 testing. This specificity for breast cancer makes the CA27.29 test a vital part of surveillance in patients at risk for recurrence of that specific malignancy.